Online Reporter
Trust Freddy
Herald Correspondent
The South African Embassy in Zimbabwe has partnered with the National Blood Service Zimbabwe (NBSZ) to host a blood donation drive at The Heritage School today, in honour of International Nelson Mandela Day and to promote humanitarian values.
Proclaimed in 2009 by the UN General Assembly, the day is celebrated annually on July 18-Mandela’s birthday, serving as a reminder that every individual has the power to positively impact the world.
Today’s event attracted students, parents, and representatives from 15 different embassies, all contributing to a noble cause by donating blood as part of belated celebrations.
NBSZ chief executive officer Ms Lucy Marowa said: “I would like to say that from National Blood Service Zimbabwe, we say we walk the talk and Nelson Mandela demonstrated that in every way. He was not only an icon, but he also lived a life of service where he was there for others.
“Today, the goal of the National Blood Service is for each and every one of you to be part of the Zimbabwe community through giving the gift of life, the gift that keeps on giving, which is the gift of your precious liquid, which is blood.”
South Africa Embassy’s Charge d’Affaires Desiree Moodley said the Embassy did not just want to honour Nelson Mandela, but to make everyone in Zimbabwe feel honoured by boosting the country’s blood stocks.
Director for Public Diplomacy, communication and advocacy, in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Trade Mrs Philisiwe Chidawanyika said: “Let us donate blood today to promote a culture of generosity and service to others, to provide life-saving support to those in need and to inspire others to contribute to a healthy society.
Representatives from various embassies, including the Republic of China, Pakistan, Palestine, and Canada among others, were in attendance.
